Montagu lies at the gap where Route 62 makes its way through the Langeberg Mountains, on the edge of the Klein Karoo.
Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostriches and the magnificent Cango Caves. Located along the renowned Route 62, which takes motorists past one awe-inspiring sight after another, Oudtshoorn is known as the Ostrich Capital of the World: these huge birds are almost as common as people in this charming town. Other than ostriches and the wonderful feathers and meat they provide, the Oudtshoorn area also boasts the spectacular Cango Caves; the largest show cave system in Africa, permeated with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites and captivating rock formations.
Now the third largest national park in South Africa, Addo Elephant National Park has expanded to conserve a wide diversity of biodiversity, landscapes, fauna and flora. Stretching from the semi-arid karoo area in the north around Darlington Dam, over the rugged Zuurberg Mountains, through the Sundays River valley and south to the coast between Sundays River mouth and Bushman’s river mouth, Addo covers about 180 000 hectares (444 700 acres) and includes the Bird and St Croix Island groups. The original elephant section of the park was proclaimed in 1931, when only sixteen elephants remained in the area. Today this finely tuned ecosystem is sanctuary to over 550 elephants, lions, buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, leopard, a variety of antelope and zebra species, as well as the unique Addo flightless dung beetle, found almost exclusively in Addo. And their Addo has only just begun, with plans to expand the Park into a 264 000 hectare (652 300 acre) mega-park. In addition, plans include the proposed proclamation of a 120 000 hectare (296 500 acre) marine protected area that includes islands that are home to the world's largest breeding populations of Cape gannets and largest breeding population of endangered African penguins. In addition, plans include the proposed proclamation of a 120 000 ha (296 500 acre) marine reserve that includes islands that are home to the world's largest breeding populations of Cape gannets and second largest breeding population of African penguins. Addo Elephant National Park offers a range of comfortable self-catering accommodation to suit everyone’s tastes from luxury to camping. Activities include guided game drives, horse trails, a 4x4 trail and hiking trails.
Port Alfred boasts a great climate, warm water beaches, a Royal golf course, intimate small-boat harbour, and interestingly a world-class training facility for pilots and air traffic controllers. Visitors Royal Alfred Marina can enjoy boat cruises through the Marina canals and if you feel energetic you can hire a water pedalo or canoe to make the trip. The warm Indian Ocean and many inland water surfaces offer endless opportunities for bathing, boating, water-skiing, surfing, windsurfing, angling, diving, canoeing and bird watching.
Located at the northern end of the gorgeous Sunshine Coast, known for its beautiful, non-crowded beaches, East London is the only river port in the country. The city’s sub-tropical climate, friendly atmosphere and pleasant coastline lapped by the temperate waters of the Indian Ocean, make it one of the Eastern Cape’s top destinations.
Situated close to the city of East London in the beautiful Eastern Cape Province, Chintsa is a hidden treasure along the Wild Coast of South Africa. It is made up of two small villages: Chintsa East and Chintsa West, which are separated by the Chintsa River Mouth. It features a pristine, unspoilt long stretch of white-sand beach fringed by dense lush vegetation scattered with a variety of wonderful places to stay ranging from luxury to budget accommodation. Chintsa offers visitors the opportunity to surf the waves, kayak along the river, enjoy a fishing excursion and soak up the African sun on the spectacular beach.
Lalibela Game Reserve is a malaria-free private game reserve in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Lalibela offers Big 5 game viewing and luxury accommodation in 3 lodges. One lodge is family friendly with a dedicated children’s programme.
Backed by the Tsitsikamma Mountains’ mighty Storms River Peak and surrounded by swathes of indigenous forest, Stormsriver Village, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is a scenic adventure sports enthusiast's paradise. At the Tsitsikamma National Park and other parks nearby - characterised by wildlife-filled jungles, rivers, and sea - adrenaline-junkies can enjoy canopying, ziplining, tubing, kayaking, snorkelling, segway riding, cycling, and hiking. An especially popular attraction nearby is the Bloukrans River Bridge, the highest in Africa, where spine-tingling bungee jumping can be enjoyed. The famous Otter Trail begins here, and the surf mecca Jeffrey’s Bay lies just 80 kilometres away. Other highlights include luxury spas; charming craft stalls and boutiques; and a collection of interesting restaurants, such as Marilyn’s 60’s Diner, a retro eatery decorated with a jukebox, 1961 Dodge Lancer, and various other vintage cars.
The Portuguese explorers called it the Beautiful Bay, and it’s easy to see why – Plettenberg Bay is a picturesque, charming town with miles of pristine beaches, tranquil lagoons, clean rivers, indigenous forests and a dramatic rocky peninsula. Playground to the wealthy, beach mansions overlook the Indian Ocean, often dotted with luxury yachts, while leisure time is given over to polo and golf, among other things. However, all kinds of visitors will feel at peace here as simply swimming in the warm water on a safe beach is a great way to experience the beauty of Plettenberg Bay.
